Visit one of the sites and consider the stereotypes of disabilities that you are familiar with. Where did you get these stereotypes, from news coverage or mass media?
The site I visited contained an article titled "The Columbine Syndrome" and it particularly caught my attention. The article is based around violence as a product of mental illness. Not just any illness but very minute, easily treatable "illnesses" such as A.D.H.D. and depression. Its been a popularly held belief that the "Columbine Shootings" were in fact a result of the depression and anxiety possessed by Eric Harris. "Ever since the news got out that school shooter Eric Harris was taking Luvox, an antidepressant, kids’ mental illness and eventual mass murder have been linked in the public mind" (Warner). I believe that this sensationalized stereotype gained acceptance as a result of the mass media coverage of this tragedy.
In a recent survey, eighty-one percent of respondents said they thought children with major depression would be dangerous to themselves or others; 33 percent said they believed children with A.D.H.D. were likely to be dangerous. I believe this stereotype would not be held today if it weren't for skewed mass media coverage and its subliminally judgmental reports.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Preliminary Info: JOUR4250
Hello, first I'd like to say that I am excited about being in this class! It seems to be a very interesting subject and I can't wait to learn more about bias views in the media.
The main source from which I get the news would have to be CNN. I prefer their broadcast over others because I believe they give more precise coverage. I can say that although I read the paper whenever I have the time, I generally spend more time WATCHING the news than READING it. I would say that I try to watch the news directly at least everyday. Otherwise it's usually left on airing in the background while I get other things done.
I have definitely noticed a difference in the amount of news coverage I seek now compared to a year ago. I am more interested in current events now than I have ever been. With a growing dependence and interest in news coverage I believe you grow as an individual and learn more about yourself due to the formulation of ideas and opinions you never thought you possessed.
When I think about news media's approach on sex, gender, disabilities and etc. I believe that everyone is guilty of adding a slight skew to the news. Every different media program has a different way of reporting and in each technique individual thoughts and viewpoints are inevitably transferred to the audience and/or reader.
The main source from which I get the news would have to be CNN. I prefer their broadcast over others because I believe they give more precise coverage. I can say that although I read the paper whenever I have the time, I generally spend more time WATCHING the news than READING it. I would say that I try to watch the news directly at least everyday. Otherwise it's usually left on airing in the background while I get other things done.
I have definitely noticed a difference in the amount of news coverage I seek now compared to a year ago. I am more interested in current events now than I have ever been. With a growing dependence and interest in news coverage I believe you grow as an individual and learn more about yourself due to the formulation of ideas and opinions you never thought you possessed.
When I think about news media's approach on sex, gender, disabilities and etc. I believe that everyone is guilty of adding a slight skew to the news. Every different media program has a different way of reporting and in each technique individual thoughts and viewpoints are inevitably transferred to the audience and/or reader.
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